Health Encyclopedia

Intestinal Pseudo-obstruction

Definition

In intestinal pseudo-obstruction, foods and liquids are unable to pass through the intestine, causing a build-up of food, fluid, and gas in all or part of the colon. The symptoms of this condition act like
a
mechanical bowel obstruction
, but no blockage is found when doctors examine the intestine.

Treatment

Talk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you. Treatment options include:

Nutritional Support

IV feeding may be necessary to help prevent malnutrition.

Medications

Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics to help prevent bacterial infections due to your condition. In addition, medications can be used to treat muscle problems in the intestines. Changes in your medications may be made to eliminate some medications that can slow recovery from, or worsen, this condition.

Surgery

In severe cases of intestinal pseudo-obstruction, surgery to remove part or your entire intestine may be necessary.

Endoscopy

If the colon does not resume normal function after conservative management, the pressure build-up in the colon can be relieved by removing the trapped air with a
colonoscope
.

Prevention

Many cases of intestinal pseudo-obstruction cannot be prevented. But certain measures can be taken after surgery to help avoid the complication of intestinal pseudo-obstruction. These measures include:

Early oral feeding

Gum chewing

Fluid restriction

Medications that inhibit opioid receptors

Beta-blockers

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.